Boarding at Cothill | Independent Prep School - Oxfordshire
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Boarding

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Life as a Boarder

Boarding is at the heart of a Cothill education. From the moment boarders arrive, they become part of something genuinely special: a close-knit community where friendships run deep, where staff know every child by name, and where the rhythms of each day are shaped around helping children feel at home.

Our boarding provision is outstanding in every sense – exceptional pastoral care delivered by a dedicated and experienced team, beautiful facilities, and acres of grounds to explore. But what truly sets us apart is something harder to put into words: the particular warmth and energy of a Cothill boarding house, felt from the very first visit.

We believe that children flourish when they feel secure, known, and genuinely cared for. That is what we work to give every boarder, every day.

Girls live in the newly refurbished Gardenside wing, complete with their own common room and chillout zones. Junior boys (Years 3-6) are housed in Bowlers, and senior boys (Years 7-8) on Fenside, each with common room space tailored to their year group needs.

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a group of children playing in a park - from Cothill - Independent Prep School in Oxfordshire

Experiences and Adventure

Strong friendships form quickly through a packed weekend programme of climbing, swimming, art, DT, woodwork, scootering, exploring the grounds and plenty more. Outings include visiting the zoo, laser tag, trampolining, and the cinema, ensuring there’s always an adventure to look forward to.

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Daily Routines

Pupils live in dorms of five to eight and settle into routines supported by Houseparents, Matrons, and Nurses who are on hand to listen, guide, and reassure. Each evening the boarders can choose an activity from the Cothill Activities Programme (CAPS), before heading to the boarding house for time to relax and unwind. The much loved activity nights offer the girls and boys to try something new: From dorm forts, arts and crafts, to making and tasting new foods as part of ‘Foodie Fridays’, our pupils are always encouraged to keep busy and be inquisitive. Amidst the fun, pupils develop practical life skills by managing laundry and tidying their dorms, before the evening winds down with quiet reading ahead of lights out.

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Fostering Independence

In Years 7 and 8, pupils take greater ownership of their time and daily routines. Whether helping lock up the school in the evenings, preparing snacks, or leading projects, these experiences build confidence and maturity, foster independence and create a strong sense of community and belonging. By the end of Year 8, pupils leave ready for the next chapter; resilient, self-assured, and excited for what lies ahead.